DEAR EDITOR

There is concern in the county regarding the investment of council money in the vast Bluestone project.

By contrast, it is interesting to look at another, in this case very successful, investment by the county council.

Haverfordwest Farmers’ Market is thriving and has received many awards and commendations. When we visit, it is always buzzing.

But have we ever stopped to wonder how many jobs that project has created?

Perhaps only a few extra hours here and there for a part-timer, or an extra job. Increased income for the stallholders allows them to spend more in the county, or invest in their businesses.

It’s a complex calculation, but undoubtedly this and other similar projects, directly or indirectly, create jobs.

Recently, I have been in touch with old friends in the west Wales textile industry, in which I used to work.

Despite the recession, cheap imports, and the collapse of the main UK textile industry, the mills are flourishing. Customers are looking for unique designs and fabrics. I believe this is true for many craft businesses.

Pembrokeshire is a wonderful centre for small businesses and we should do all we can to encourage and support them.

When planning permission was given to Bluestone, there was hardly any unemployment in that area; it was full of small businesses.

David Redpath
Spindles
Lawrenny.